The Unspoken Side of Oral Sex: HPV and Oropharyngeal Cancer

24 Apr 2025

Giving Head and Getting Cancer? Let’s Talk About HPV and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Oral sex — most people are doing it, but very few are talking about the risks that come with it. No, we’re not trying to kill the vibe. We just want to make sure you’re staying sexy and safe — starting with something many folks don’t realize: you can get throat cancer from HPV.

Yep, that HPV — the one usually mentioned in the same sentence as Pap smears and cervical cancer. But here’s the tea: HPV doesn’t care what body parts you have. It affects people of all genders, and it’s especially relevant to folks who enjoy oral sex.

So let’s break it down — with facts, a little sass, and a lot of science.

What Is HPV?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact — especially during oral, anal, and vaginal sex — and yes, that includes oral sex with partners of any gender.

There are over 100 strains of HPV. Some are harmless. Others cause genital warts. But about 14 high-risk strains can lead to cancer — and one of the hotspots? The oropharynx, or the back of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue.

So… You Can Get Cancer From Oral Sex?

In short: yes.
Specifically: HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer.

Over the past decade, cases of this type of cancer have risen significantly, especially among cisgender men, and particularly among gay, bi, and queer men — most of whom never knew they were at risk.

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is now the most common HPV-related cancer in the U.S. — even more than cervical cancer. Let that sink in.

How Does HPV Lead to Throat Cancer?

HPV enters through oral sex (or even deep kissing in some cases — it’s that sneaky).
The virus infects the cells in the throat.
In most people, the immune system clears it.
But in some, the infection lingers… sometimes for years.
Over time, it can mutate cells and lead to cancer in the oropharynx.
And because it hides out quietly, most people don’t know they’re infected — or even at risk — until they’re facing a serious diagnosis.

Symptoms to Watch For:

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is tricky — it often develops without pain or obvious symptoms. But some signs include:

Persistent sore throat (not from karaoke)
Difficulty swallowing
A lump in the neck or jaw
Ear pain
Hoarseness or changes in your voice
Unexplained weight loss

If any of these sound familiar and they’ve stuck around for more than 2–3 weeks, it’s time to get checked.

The Good News: There’s a Vaccine!

Here’s the superhero in this story: the HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9). It’s safe, effective, and prevents infection from the high-risk HPV strains that cause most oropharyngeal, cervical, anal, and penile cancers.

Recommended for everyone of all genders starting at age 11 or 12
Catch-up vaccination is available up to age 26
People aged 27–45 can still get it after consulting with a provider — especially relevant for sexually active adults

If you didn’t get it as a teen, it’s not too late. Seriously, it’s a few shots that could prevent cancer. What’s hotter than that?

Let’s Be Real: Who’s at Higher Risk?

We’re not here to judge — we’re here to inform. The following groups may be at higher risk:

People with multiple oral sex partners (past or present)
Cisgender men, especially those who have sex with men
Anyone who didn’t receive the HPV vaccine as a teen
People with weakened immune systems (e.g. HIV-positive individuals)
Long-term tobacco or alcohol users (these increase risk when combined with HPV)

TL;DR — The Sexy Science Summary:

HPV is super common and spreads through oral sex
It can lead to throat cancer (oropharyngeal cancer)
Most people don’t know they have it
There’s a vaccine that protects you
If you’re sexually active and unvaccinated — get it. Now.

Protect Your Mouth, Your Health, Your Partners

This isn’t about fear — it’s about awareness. Just like you protect yourself from STIs with condoms and regular testing, it’s time to include HPV prevention in your routine.

Book a vaccine consultation. Talk to your provider. Share this article with a friend who thinks “throat cancer” is something only smokers get. And if you’re a sex-positive, mouth-loving adult, just remember: